Mohonk Preserve Lemon Squeeze (Labyrinth, Sky Top): Great Views & Scrambling!

http://hikethehudsonvalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/MohonkMH_0419.jpgGet ready —for a day that you will leave you feeling great in both body, mind and spirit! The beautiful Shawangunk Ridge is the setting for this great hike. This challenging hike/rock scramble will get you using your arms, legs and mind to climb over giant boulders, squeeze through narrow crevices and wiggle your way through a few rock caves. Along the way you there will be beautiful places to rest and enjoy the views of Mohonk and the Shawangunks Mountains.

http://hikethehudsonvalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/MohonkMH_0385.jpgWe will meet at the visitor's center and hike along Undercliff Road. Here we should be able to see the rock climber's hanging off the cliff above. We then climb up the crevices of Giant's Workshop. Afterwards, we turn left onto the red Arching Rocks Path (walking under the impressive cliff overhangs). Then turn right onto the blue Cathedral Path. We then climb up the crevices of the cliff face. At the top, we stop for one of the most breathtaking views in the Gunks. We then climb up through the boulders to the top of Eagle Cliff. Turn right onto Eagle Cliff Road. Admire the great views of Lake Mohonk, the Mohonk Mountain House, and Sky Top from the many summerhouses along the cliff edge.

http://hikethehudsonvalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/MohonkMH_02761.jpgWe then begin the famous Labyrinth trail. We climb up the ladders and through the crevices and caves at the base of Sky Top. Finally, we squeeze up through the "Lemon Squeeze." If you're up to the 101 steps, you can climb up to the top of the tower and admire the view of six states.

I've been waiting a long time to do this hike every since I though the one in Harriman (https://www.meetup.com/NYC-Backwoods-Adventurers/events/82081272/) was THE one. What I've outlined above will be following the path attempted by another meetup (http://www.hudsonvalleyhikers.com/events/117347152/?fromms=1&a=ea1_grp&rv=ea1&_af_eid=117347152&__domain=www.hudsonvalleyhikers.com&_af=event) however there's a lot to see on Mohonk so we'll add to it if we can while we're there!

I classify this as an intermediate hike even though a lot of it will be done on carriage roads (outside of the scrambles). This is NOT for novice hikers or beginners who have only done 5 miles around Harriman or Bear Mtn. If you're an advance beginner (can do over 8 miles) and have all the appropriate gear then you can attempt it. This is also not a hike for anyone who is claustrophobic since we'll be going through a few tight spots and crevices. If you're still not sure, I suggest you do the Breakneck hike (https://www.meetup.com/NYC-Backwoods-Adventurers/events/116764932/) with us prior to RSVPing for this trip.

We'll look to keep a moderate pace with minimal breaks. That being said, we don't run our trips like a race, competing to reach the end of the hike - we prefer to take advantage of the scenery while we're there. Check out this detailed account (http://hikethehudsonvalley.com/mohonk-mountain-house-labyrinth-and-lemon-squeeze/) of what you'll encountered while we're there.

Miles:

Approximately 8-10 miles
Difficulty:

Intermediate Weather:

If there are rain or thundershowers, the event will be rescheduled How to Get There:

To reach the Visitor Center located at 3197 State Route 55, Gardiner, NY, take the New Paltz exit 18 off of the NYS Thruway. Go 7 miles west (through New Paltz) on Route 299 to the end: make right on Route 44-55 and then 1/2 mile to the Visitor Center on right. If that lot is full, continue a few hundred yards farther up hill to the entrance to additional, overflow parking lots at the Visitor Center. There is a $12 per person entrance fee unless you have an annual pass.

Gear:
Check out our day hiking recommendations (https://www.meetup.com/NYC-Backwoods-Adventurers/pages/Proper_Gear%3A_Day_Hikes) page.

Polyester/synthetic hiking clothing - layers are recommended Hiking Boots Garden gloves (to protect your hands) Sunscreen, wind breaker, & hat to protect you from sun/wind 2.5-3 liters or water Lunch/snacks Mohonk map (http://www.mohonk.com/content/download/657/3718/version/2/file/MohonkHikingMap12.pdf) Transportation:

We will carpool and passengers pick up the tabs on gas/tolls. If we do not have enough drivers we will rent a van and split the cost. Please post if you need a ride or can give a ride. Drivers please post on your RSVP state from where and how many passengers you can take.

Disclaimer: You agree when you sign up that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. You agree not to hold the Organizer, Assistant Organizers, or any other members responsible for any injuries, mishaps, or any other situation that may happen at a planned event. Your attendance to an event signifies that you have read and accept the terms of this liability waiver. The complete liability waiver can be found on the PAGES section of this meetup site.

Photos courtesy of HiketheHudsonValley.com